A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 struck off Cuba’s north-west coast on Monday, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor was felt across parts of the Caribbean, Mexico and even Florida in the United States.
The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 26 kilometres. Its centre was about 104 kilometres west-north-west of Mantua, a town in western Cuba.
Why Was the Earthquake Unusual?
Experts said the quake was unusual because it happened within a tectonic plate rather than along the boundary between plates, where most powerful earthquakes occur.
USGS seismologist Paul Earle said no earthquake of a similar strength had been recorded within 322 kilometres of the area since an estimated magnitude 6.0 quake near San Cristobal in 1880. This makes it one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the region in nearly 150 years.
Residents across western Cuba felt the shaking and many rushed outside for safety. The tremor was also felt in parts of Florida and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Was There Any Damage?
Authorities in Cuba reported no major damage or injuries. Despite concerns about the country’s ageing buildings and ongoing power problems, there were no immediate reports of serious impact.
In Mexico, officials in the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo activated emergency procedures. Buildings in Cancun were evacuated as a precaution. No tsunami warning was issued after the earthquake.
A separate earthquake measuring 5.0 struck southern Iran early on Tuesday. The quake hit near Sargaz in Hormozgan province at a depth of 22 kilometres, according to Iranian state media.
Were There Any Casualties in Iran?
There were no immediate reports of deaths, injuries or major damage following the earthquake. Iranian authorities said they were monitoring the situation.
Iran is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. It sits on several major fault lines, making seismic activity common across the country. Earthquakes of varying strengths occur regularly in different parts of Iran.
First published on: Jun 09, 2026 06:37 AM IST
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